Apple, Fitbit Sued for Infringing on Sensor Patents

Jan. 7, 2016, 12:40 p.m.

Raleigh-based Valencell is suing Apple and Fitbit for patent infringement.

Valencell doesn't manufacture its own wearables; instead, it develops and licenses technology—most notably PerformTek sensors, which are used in wearable devices—earbuds, smartwatches, armbands, wristbands—to measure things like heart rate, VO2, calories burned, and cadence. According to Valencell, however, firms like Apple and Fitbit use its patented tech without permission.

"We will defend our intellectual property to ensure our current and future licensees get the full value of licensing our inventions, as we continue to innovate around our foundational dream of seamless, personalized mobile health and fitness," Valencell President Steven LeBoeuf said in a statement.

The Apple Watch and Fitbit wearables allegedly infringe on four patents:

Valencell did not expand on exactly which products or features are at fault.

"As the pioneer and leader in the connected health and fitness market, Fitbit has independently developed and delivered innovative product offerings to empower its customers to lead healthier, more active lives," a company spokeswoman told PCMag. "Since its inception, Fitbit has more than 200 issued patents and patent applications in this area. Fitbit plans to vigorously defend itself against these allegations."

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Apple Watch and watchOS was released last year. Fitbit has a full lineup of fitness trackers, including the Blaze smartwatch it introduced during this week's CES.